UK Work Visa: 5 Things To Keep In Mind

Ranking in at number 5, the UK is one of the biggest economies in the world today. Currently, the size of the UK economy stands at $2.9 trillion.

The UK provides great work opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers from other countries. While the competition for graduate jobs is tough, the right candidates have a high chance of making a decent living in the UK.

But, before you decide to move to the UK for pursuing better work opportunities, you will need to apply for a visa. Applying for a work visa is an essential requirement for finding a good employment opportunity in the UK. Based on your country of origin, you will need a work permit and possibly a visa.

The work visa process can be incredibly stressful, time-consuming and difficult to understand. In order to make things as simple as possible, here is some basic information you need to know about applying for a UK work visa:

Determine if you need a UK work visa

First step, figure out whether or not you need a work permit. Depending on where you are from, a work permit might be necessary.

Simply visit the UK Government website to get your answer. The website has visa requirements for different nationalities. Once you entered information about your citizenship and how long you plan to stay in the UK, the website will provide the information you need, including the type of visa you should apply for.

Generally speaking, Commonwealth citizens with at least one grandparent born in the UK or at least one parent who is a British citizen do not need a work permit.

Know different UK work visa types

There are different types of UK work visas, including Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa, Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa, Tier 2 (Intra-company transfer) visa, and more.

UK work visa typically cover skilled and high value workers. In addition, specialist visas are for domestic staff and temporary workers.

When applying for a work visa, you will need to pay specific fees. Generally speaking, the fee is based on the type of visa you apply for.

Visa processing time is typically around 3 weeks. However, the processing differs from one nationality to another nationality.

Gather documents you need

UK work visa applicants need to fulfill certain eligibility criteria and submit documentation. The exact requirements vary by visa type. However, in most cases, applicants need to submit a current passport, proof of adequate bank funds or a certificate from a sponsor stating that they will support the applicant, and so on. Employer sponsorship may also be required. Similarly, some applicants may be asked to submit English language proficiency test results.

UK work visa for entrepreneurs

If you are interested in setting up a business in the UK, you will have to apply for a Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa. In addition, you will need to provide that you have sufficient savings to support yourself, £50,000 investment funds and a business plan.

UK work visa for family members and dependants

Depending on the type of visa, your family members or dependants can accompany you into the UK.

You can find detailed information the rights of dependants and family members on the UK government.

Getting a work visa in the UK is not always easy. But, our trained and experienced team of UK immigration solicitors can provide you complete legal advice about the eligibility requirements. They can also help you prepare your work visa application in no time.

Get in touch now to apply for UK work visa.